Bangkok: The Ministry of Commerce has announced new measures to regulate the import of burn-free animal feed corn as part of its 2026 agenda to combat cross-border air pollution. The initiative aims to reduce PM 2.5 pollution and safeguard public health across Thailand by ensuring that imported corn is produced without burning, a practice that contributes significantly to pollution levels.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Athit Nithiuthai, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Foreign Trade, stated that from January 1, 2026, importers of animal feed corn will be required to provide evidence confirming the burn-free production of their imports. This policy responds to Thailand's shortfall in domestic corn production, necessitating imports of over 1.3 to 2 million tons annually, primarily from neighboring countries where post-harvest burning is prevalent.
The new regulations will necessitate annual registration for importers, along with documentation proving the burn-free origin of their products. The initial phase will serve as a transitional period until the Clean Air Act's subsidiary laws are in force. Importers can certify their products through government agencies or internationally recognized organizations and must provide traceability records. Subsequently, tighter controls will be enforced, requiring certification from recognized agencies and detailed maps of plantation locations.
This environmental measure, a first for Thailand, was developed collaboratively in early 2025 with input from government bodies, the private sector, farmers, and investors. It aims to balance environmental protection with international trade obligations, aligning with ASEAN and WTO standards.
The policy is currently under Cabinet review, alongside strategies to prevent corn shortages that might arise from import disruptions. These strategies include expanding import quotas within the WTO framework and reducing tariffs to 0%, while still safeguarding local farmers by mandating domestic corn purchases.
Animal feed corn remains crucial for Thailand, with domestic production lagging behind demand. In the 2024/2025 period, domestic production was 4.558 million tons compared to a demand of 8.436 million plants, necessitating significant imports. Key import sources include Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia, while major global exporters are the United States, Brazil, and Argentina.
In addition to corn import regulations, Thai exporters must prepare for new licensing measures for dual-use items related to nuclear technology. The Department of Foreign Trade will require exporters to verify and license goods potentially used for weapons of mass destruction via an e-Classification system starting in December 2025.
These measures, aligned with UNSC Resolution 1540 and national legislation, aim to bolster global security standards and enhance Thailand's international standing. This will boost confidence in Thai products and affirm the country's commitment to global peace, with 2024 exports of dual-use items valued at 437 billion baht.